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Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre St. Jacobs

Ken Ludwig's

Dear Jack, Dear Louise

A Love Story

October 2 to October 27, 2024

By Ken Ludwig

Crackling with humour, emotion, and poignancy, Dear Jack, Dear Louise is an inspiring reminder of the best we can be, even in the worst of times. 

When two strangers meet by letter during World War II, a wartime romance begins to develop. U.S. Army Captain Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, begins writing to Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress and dancer in New York City, hoping to meet her someday … if the war will allow. But as the conflict rages on, their relationship is threatened before it even starts.

Tony Award®-winning playwright Ken Ludwig (Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, Lend Me a Tenor) tells the joyous, heartwarming story of his parents’ courtship – and the results are anything but expected. 

Recommended for ages 10 and up.

Running Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes, including a 20 minute intermission

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Reviews

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What a beautiful story to come out of the horrors of War.
Catherine K, Oakville
The acting in this play was outstanding. I enjoyed the development of the relationship, as it interfaced with the reality of the events of the Second World War. The ending was emotional and heartwarming. Overall, a wonderful experience.
Lynn T, Burlington
We have been attending Drayton Entertainment shows for over 30 years. This show is definitely one of the BEST we have seen! Emotional, funny and had us in tears at the end Bravo to the cast - we look forward to seeing them in future productions!
Sandy Willett, Kitchener
The talented actors brought the audience along as their long distance romance evolved before the days of instant messaging, when the only means of more immediate interaction were expensive long distance calls or telegrams. We felt the ups and downs, the frustration and joy, and were moved to laughter and tears. Excellent performance, the costumes, sets and sounds were also well-done, helping to create the appropriate feel of time and place.
Franlie A, Guelph
Absolutely brilliant performance from the beginning to the end. Jack and Louise have become my new favorite couple
Leigh G, Waterloo

Meet The Artists

Darcy Gerhart headshot

Darcy Gerhart

Louise

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Headshot of Ethan Warren

Ethan Warren

Jack

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Ethan Warren and Darcy Gerhart in Dear Jack, Dear Louise, Drayton Entertainment, 2024 Season. Directed by David Eisner; Set Design by Brian Dudkiewicz; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Steve Lucas; Sound Design by Lyon Smith; Stage Manager Paula Stewart; Assistant Stage Manager Arlen Otten. Photography by Annissa Malthaner
 In this image, two actors are on stage. On the left, a male performer in a military uniform sits on a chair, holding a wooden box on his lap, delivering a serious expression. To the right, a female performer, seated at a vintage wooden desk, listens attentively while engaging with an antique telephone. She wears a floral dress with her hair styled in 1940s curls. The backdrop consists of a screen divider with vintage coats, a bright blue feather boa, and a warm-toned lamp. The background is decorated with handwritten letters, emphasizing the personal, emotional tone of the scene.
Darcy Gerhart in Dear Jack, Dear Louise, Drayton Entertainment, 2024 Season. Directed by David Eisner; Set Design by Brian Dudkiewicz; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Steve Lucas; Sound Design by Lyon Smith; Stage Manager Paula Stewart; Assistant Stage Manager Arlen Otten. Photography by Annissa Malthaner.
 In this image, a female performer sits at a wooden desk, smiling as she engages with an antique rotary telephone. She wears a vintage floral dress in muted tones, with curled hair styled in a 1940s fashion. The stage is set in a cozy, intimate atmosphere with a screen divider in the background adorned with vintage coats, hats, and a bright blue feather boa. A pink lamp adds warmth to the scene, while an old-fashioned radio sits on a side table, enhancing the nostalgic mood of the production.
Ethan Warren in Dear Jack, Dear Louise, Drayton Entertainment, 2024 Season. Directed by David Eisner; Set Design by Brian Dudkiewicz; Costume Design by Alex Amini; Lighting Design by Steve Lucas; Sound Design by Lyon Smith; Stage Manager Paula Stewart; Assistant Stage Manager Arlen Otten. Photography by Annissa Malthaner.
 In this image, a male performer, dressed as a soldier in military gear, kneels on stage while adjusting his boot. He is wearing a green army jacket, scarf, and khaki pants. Beside him is a large green trunk, an army helmet, and a worn duffel bag, suggesting he's preparing for a journey or military mission. Behind him, part of a vintage telephone is visible on a wooden desk, adding a nostalgic touch. The backdrop features handwritten letters, reinforcing the emotional and historical themes of the scene.

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“Ken Ludwig's Dear Jack, Dear Louise” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com